How long does it take to sell a house in Wellington?

In the current Wellington market, most homes sell within 3 to 5 weeks, depending on presentation and pricing. Leonie & Steve run a proven 3-week tender process designed to attract strong offers quickly and maximise competition among serious buyers.

Should I sell before I buy in Wellington?

It depends on your financial position and risk tolerance. In Wellington’s patchy market, many homeowners prefer to sell first to know exactly what budget they have. Leonie & Steve can help you coordinate timing so you’re not left in limbo between transactions.

Do I need to stage my home before selling?

Staging can significantly improve your sale price and time on market. Leonie creates customised home-preparation plans and can often help you use what you already have — no need for expensive full staging packages unless it truly adds value.

Are buyers still active in Wellington right now?

Yes — serious buyers are still out there, even when the headlines sound gloomy. Rain or shine, motivated buyers are booking private viewings and tender interest remains steady across Wellington’s northern and western suburbs.

Why choose Leonie & Steve to sell my home?

With over 500 Wellington home sales and 16+ years of experience, Leonie & Steve combine expert negotiation, honest advice, and hands-on service — no junior agents, no hand-offs, just two experienced professionals managing every detail of your sale.

Seller Advice

Buying a Home in Wellington

Is 2026 the Year to Downsize in Wellington?

6 days ago

2 min read

0

2

0

*Modern Wellington townhouse for downsizing in 2026, real estate services by Leonie and Steve.*

The question we’re hearing most at the start of 2026 is simple: “Is now the right time?” After a turbulent few years that saw Wellington prices dip significantly from their 2022 peaks, the capital is finally finding its spark again. If you’ve been waiting for a stable window to trade your large family home for something more manageable, 2026 is looking like a very strategic time to act.

1. A Market That has Found Its Floor

Wellington house prices took a steeper hit than many other New Zealand centers. However, data from RealEstate.co.nz suggests we have stabilized. We are now entering a "stabilising year" rather than a boom-or-bust cycle. This stability reduces the risk of "selling low and buying high," especially in established areas like Khandallah and Ngaio.

2. The Interest Rate "Sweet Spot"

The borrowing landscape has changed. With the Reserve Bank of New Zealandkeeping the OCR steady in early 2026, mortgage rates have settled into a much more comfortable range. This improved serviceability makes it easier to secure your next home without the frantic bidding wars that defined the previous decade.

3. Better Choices for Downsizers

One of the biggest hurdles for downsizers was a lack of appropriate stock. In 2026, Wellington is seeing a healthier pipeline of higher-density homes. While standalone homes in suburbs like Johnsonville and Paparangistill hold their value well, the surge in new builds gives you more leverage to find a low-maintenance home that fits your lifestyle.

4. Why "Wait and See" Might Cost You

Economists predict that 2026 will be a year of rebuilding confidence. As the economy "defrosts," waiting too long could mean facing more competition as other buyers begin to push prices upward more aggressively toward 2027. You can see how we've helped others navigate these transitions in our Seller Stories.

The Verdict

If your current home feels more like a "giant storage unit," 2026 is an excellent window to free up equity. You have more choice and more room for negotiation.

Thinking of making a move this year?

We’d love to help you navigate the 2026 Wellington market. Book a 15-minute Property Value Visit with Leonie and Steve today for a confidential chat.

Seller Advice

Buying a Home in Wellington